Search underway for overdue aircraft

RCCNZ Search and Rescue Officer John Dickson said the Westpac Rescue Trust helicopter from Christchurch had been sent to look for the aircraft in the area around its last reported position, about nine miles (16km) north west of Lake Coleridge, Canterbury. The lake is located about 20km north of Mt Hutt. Two fixed wing aircraft from Christchurch are to get underway shortly and will assist in the search.

Mr Dickson said the plane’s emergency beacon – designed to operate on impact – had not been activated. “Because the aircraft’s beacon has not been activated, we are still unsure of what the occupant’s situation maybe. However, we are concerned that they haven’t landed or checked in as scheduled and this is why we are coordinating a thorough search of the area where they were last reported to be.”